Nike ACG Ultrafly trail running shoes "Black & Photon Dust"

The Nike Ultrafly series launched in 2023 with a shoe hailed as the first carbon-fibre-plated trail racer. Built around performance road-running technology, it also incorporated trail-ready features for off-road athletes. When its successor, the ACG Ultrafly, came out in 2026, it signified a closer connection between Nike’s outdoor-focused sub-label and the trail super shoe franchise. Combining cutting-edge running technologies and infusing them with the rugged, resilient design DNA of All Conditions Gear, the Nike ACG Ultrafly offers everyday trail runners and elite athletes the support and protection they need to take on any terrain, from the lightest tracks to the most challenging technical trails.

ZoomX foam: Latest formulation of Nike’s high-tech midsole foam is soft, lightweight and energy-returning, offering excellent shock absorption and plush comfort.

Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole: Specialised rubber compound designed to offer optimal traction and lightweight durability. This allows the use of a thinner outsole, which in turn increases flexibility and lowers the profile of the shoe.

Split carbon-fibre Flyplate: Supportive carbon-fibre midsole plate with a split along the spine offers torsional flexibility and protection as it contours seamlessly over rocks and roots, facilitating swift movement across uneven terrain without being overly rigid, restrictive or uncomfortable.

Flexible VaporMesh upper is durable, lightweight and breathable to comfortably deal with the rigours of tough trails.

Trail-specific last is wide in the toe box for a more accommodating fit.

Gusseted tongue and internal fit band provide secure lockdown and prevent debris from entering the shoe.

Sturdy lacing structure is supported by a broad lace loop in the centre of the tongue, which prevents slippage, and textured laces, which ensure the shoe does not come undone while out on the trail.

Stiff, extended heel counter and padded collar contribute to the locked-in, comfortable feel around the back of the foot.

Notched tongue fits snugly over the instep, with thin, lightweight padding to reduce lace pressure.

Welded support bands span the entire upper, adding structure and improving durability without compromising the flexibility or breathability of the mesh.

Five small holes on the medial forefoot allow water to drain quickly from inside the shoe when traversing waterlogged terrain.

Small internal toe bumper protects the front of the foot.

Extra top eyelet expands lacing options.

Full-length ZoomX foam is soft, lightweight and highly responsive, offering comfort and a springy underfoot feeling for fast, nimble movement on any trail.

37mm heel stack and 28.5mm forefoot provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption over varied terrain.

Foam platform flares around the heel and the edges of the forefoot, thus creating a stable base of the support.

Protective upper material wraps over the front half of the midsole, protecting it from trail debris and increasing durability.

Lack of midsole wrap around the back of the foot unleashes the power of the ZoomX foam as it can fully adapt to variations in the terrain to provide optimal responsiveness.

Carbon-fibre plate runs through the midsole, with less rigidity than that of its predecessor and an innovative spine split that allows it to conform to the unpredictable shapes encountered when running across technical trails. This increases agility, propulsion and protection without inhibiting the smoothness of transitions.

Vibram Megagrip outsole features full coverage of incredibly grippy rubber for comprehensive support in all weather conditions.

Litebase rubber compound is incredibly lightweight and durable.

Broad, strategically placed chevron lugs face in opposing directions to deliver superior traction and control over both uphill and downhill trails.

3mm lug-depth prevents mud and other debris from building up across the outsole while still offering enough grip for challenging terrain.

Circular cutouts keep weight to a minimum.

Glued-in ZoomX sockliner works with the ZoomX midsole and Flyplate to enhance performance by adding extra propulsion and comfort directly beneath the foot.